Revolutionary S.M.A.R.T. bone grafting is here! An intro to the benefits of minimally-invasive treatment
The world’s only patented minimally-invasive bone grafting technique, backed by solid science and a proven track record, is here in Conyers! Our Board-certified periodontist, Dr. Jean-Max Jean-Pierre, is pleased to offer the S.M.A.R.T. method at the Periodontal Center of Georgia.
What does S.M.A.R.T. stand for?
S.M.A.R.T. stands for “Subperiosteal Minimally-invasive Aesthetic Ridge Augmentation Technique.” We know this sounds like a mouthful, but S.M.A.R.T. means that we can use conservative, tissue-preserving, and gentle techniques to treat the subperiosteal tissues between the gums and the jawbone in the bony alveolar ridge that houses the teeth. It was developed and introduced by Dr. Ernesto Lee in 2017 for complex cases in the “aesthetic zone,” supporting attractive, optimal outcomes and a comfortable experience when building up bone loss due to prolonged tooth loss.
How is S.M.A.R.T. performed?
This technique is similar to laparoscopic surgery. It involves using a thin, tube-like structure to gently and precisely create a small channel underneath the tissue in the area of bone loss. Dr. Jean-Pierre may introduce the grafting material to build up and regenerate bone through this channel.
How does this approach compare to traditional bone grafting?
Very favorably! Traditional bone grafting surgery involves making large incisions or openings in the tissue. The gums are lifted from the bone, exposing the underlying treatment site. The graft material or bone substitute is placed directly on the exposed site. The material is adjusted as needed, covered with a protective membrane, and the gums are then stitched or sutured back into place. With the S.M.A.R.T. method, Dr. Jean-Pierre only makes one, small opening that is just a few millimeters in width. Through this tiny access point, he precisely applies the graft material with minimal disruption to otherwise healthy, surrounding tissues. He does not need to lift sizeable sections of the gums to access the bony area, introduce the grafting material, or perform treatment.
Patients Ask: Am I a Candidate for a S.M.A.R.T. Bone Graft?
So today we’re addressing some kitchen table topics regarding the S.M.A.R.T technique
One of the inquiries I get from patients often is well what what is this S.M.A.R.T all about and to put in plain terms I think we have to compare how it differs from the traditional technique so if if any of you have had any of these procedures or are contemplating having these procedures you know that traditionally the gums are detached and the bone is exposed and then there is a additional bone that’s placed to increase the volume present typically for implant placement and this bone may be in the form of a block that is cut out from the patient’s pelvis or from elsewhere in the jaw or sometimes it’s cadaver bone there are different sources but it is typically a complex technique there’s tenting screws that are involved there are metallic meshes or membranes and then the the gums have to be put back into place and suture so it is a fairly complicated procedure that typically has had a record of complications in about three quarters of the patients.
So the way ours differs the way smart differs from the traditional technique is that a small incision is made away from the site that needs to be grafted and then a laparoscopic method is utilized to go under the gums with a narrow tunnel and deliver the bone graft combined with a growth factor to the site, so this is just not not a mechanical approach, this is minimally invasive but it also utilizes some of the same compounds that your body uses to to heal injury as a result of this we were able to treat situations that could not be treated with a traditional technique with less pain less swelling less time in terms of total treatment duration and fewer complications as well and that’s what is attractive and compelling about this technique.
So if you believe that you’re a candidate I would urge you to just contact us through a our email and have an inquiry just send us an inquiry and we will refer you to one of the more than 300 smart certified conditions nationwide and you may get a better opinion as to whether or not it is adequate for your case,
S.MA.R.T it’s appropriate to treat in my estimation about 80 85 of all bone grafting casesย so it’s something to keep in mind till the next time
What are the benefits of such a minimally-invasive approach?
Reconstructing the jawbone in this manner presents many opportunities for a more appealing treatment, including:
- Eliminates the need for tenting screws, membranes, and meshes associated with conventional grafting techniques
- Does not disrupt the blood supply to the surrounding tissues
- Preserves more of the natural oral tissues structure and appearance of the gum line (especially vital for teeth in the visible “smile zone”)
- Supports optimal healing, bone regeneration, and outcomes
- Reduces the risk of pain, inflammation, swelling, gum recession, scarring, and other complications
- Promotes a quicker return to normal activities and a minimal downtime procedure
- Does not require the extensive preparation and closure of a surgical site, so time in the dental chair is also minimized
In general, S.M.A.R.T. supports the success of subsequent dental implants placement and the long-term health, function, and beauty of your smile.
But, is it right for me?
Dr. Jean-Pierre will not know for sure until after he evaluates your mouth. As a periodontist, rest assured that there is an option to restore the health and appearance of your mouth at the Periodontal Center of Georgia. You may be a good candidate for this procedure if you have horizontal bone loss in the jaw and insufficient bone volume for dental implants. However, you are generally healthy and maintain a healthy lifestyle. To request your consultation, contact our Conyers, GA office at (770) 767-0603 today.
